Mississippi House Bill HB1045

Mississippi 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/16/23
• Refer: 1/16/23
• Failed: 2/9/23

Caption

Libraries; regulate the material that is curated for children and younger teens.

Impact

This bill modifies state law by instituting stricter controls over what materials can be accessed by children in public libraries. It empowers parents and citizens to petition for the removal of materials they believe to be inappropriate, thereby providing a mechanism through which local voices can influence library collections. Additionally, libraries found in violation of the act can face legal action, which places a significant onus on them to comply with the regulations set forth by the commission. Overall, the bill is expected to affect the operational autonomy of libraries as they adjust to comply with the new standards outlined in HB1045.

Summary

House Bill 1045 seeks to regulate the materials available in public libraries, specifically focusing on collections curated for children under the age of fifteen. The legislation prohibits the inclusion of obscene written or visual materials in library collections, which are determined under the guidelines established by the newly created Commission on Age Appropriate Literacy. This commission is tasked with compiling and annually updating a list of materials deemed obscene based on community standards, thus ensuring that library resources align with what is considered age-appropriate for young patrons.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB1045 is quite polarized. Supporters argue that the bill is a necessary measure to protect children from inappropriate content and to give parents greater oversight over their children's reading materials. Critics, however, view the legislation as an overreach that infringes on the freedom to access diverse literature, labeling it as an attempt to impose censorship in public resources. The dialogue around the bill highlights a fundamental clash between parental control and the preservation of literary freedom in public libraries.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the definition of what constitutes 'obscene' material, which many argue can be highly subjective and dependent on personal values. There are concerns that the criteria set by the commission may not adequately represent the diverse community standards across Mississippi. Additionally, the potential for legal challenges against libraries could lead to a chilling effect on their collections, as librarians may be hesitant to include books that could be deemed controversial, further narrowing the available resources for children. Thus, while the bill aims to safeguard youth, it raises significant questions about cultural expression and the mission of public libraries in society.